Dan Mullen called Mississippi State's first half performance "embarrassing" Saturday and overall play "sloppy at times".

But the Bulldogs were still able to win and win big taking down FCS opponent Tennessee-Martin 55-17 for homecoming.

"The most positive outcome of the game was we got a win and secondly we got to play a lot of players," Mullen said. "I think we came out of the game very healthy and got some guys who needed experience some experience in that game."

Sophomore Tyler Russell earned his third straight start against the Skyhawks but left the game with mixed reviews. Russell completed 9-of-18 passing for 183 yards, one touchdown and one interception.

The Bulldogs will need a much more consistent showing from Russell this week taking on Alabama's top flight defense.